Questions to Ask your Wedding Venue
1. If I want an outdoor ceremony/reception and/or photos what is the inclement weather plan?
Some venues have separate rooms for the ceremony and reception, and then an outdoor option for the ceremony, while others only have a main reception space. If there is inclement weather on your day are you prepared to have a room flip between the ceremony and reception, or have guests sit at their tables during the ceremony? Where are your pictures being taken if you booked your venue for its scenic element? FOOD FOR THOUGHT
2. How long do we have the venue a. on the wedding day b. for rehearsals and c.for setup and teardown
Some venues require quick turnarounds giving you access only the day of, and occasionally a few hours the day before for a rehearsal. Others will give you multiple days to allow time for set up and tear down.This questions could save you serious $$$ as some venues do charge for early access
BONUS: Can I drop off my decor the day before for storage? This is GOLD. We never recommend our couples or close families run these errands on the wedding day. You should be having a drink my dear. If the venue doesnt permit dropoff we schedule a handoff during your rehearsal
3. Do you have a preferred vendors list and am I required to book them? What is the penalty if I don’t?
Some venues have preferred vendors for different elements (DJs, caters, florists etc) and occasionally there are added fees and/or requirements (ie insurance or plug-in fees) for you to bring them in. For example, are you bringing in your own food, or allow your family to cook and provide the food. Due to insurance requirements, some venues would rather you use a licensed caterer. If that’s the case does the venue provide a list of preferred caterers or a list of caterers that work there often? GOOD TO KNOW
4. What is your cancellation/postponement policy ?
Covid changed the landscape of weddings forever due to the endless postponements it caused but beyond this its always a good idea to know that should life happen you know exactly what your options are when it comes to making changes to your wedding day.
5. Do you have any restrictions I should be made aware of?
This question is an umbrella question that can cover noise ordinances (perhaps your venue is located in a restidencial area and music must be turned down by 11pm), vendor restrictions (this may entail a cleaning fee for flower petals or anything thrown during your recessional), or even decor and setup restrictions such as hanging items on the ceiling.